14 165 29 S Pull Start Recoil Starter Assembly Compatible with Kohler CV173 CV200 CV224 Lawn Mower Engine, Replace 14 165 29-S 14 165 30 S 14 165 30-S 14 165 42 S 14 165 42-S

What It Is

This is a complete recoil starter assembly—the pull-start mechanism that engages your Kohler engine’s flywheel to crank it. It replaces the factory unit on Kohler CV173, CV200, and CV224 engines, commonly found on lawn tractors, zero-turns, and commercial walk-behinds.

Fitment & Compatibility

Before buying, verify these three things:

1. Engine model – Fits Kohler Courage CV173, CV200, and CV224 only. Check the engine’s model number (stamped on the blower housing or valve cover). Not for other Kohler series (e.g., Command, Aegis).
2. OEM cross-reference – Replaces part numbers 14 165 29-S, 14 165 30 S, 14 165 30-S, 14 165 42 S, and 14 165 42-S. If your current starter has any of these numbers, this is a direct swap.
3. Bolt pattern & rope length – The housing uses three bolts on a standard 3.25-inch bolt circle. Rope length is 48 inches. Measure your old unit’s bolt spacing and rope length to confirm—especially if your engine is on a non-Kohler chassis (e.g., John Deere, Cub Cadet) that may use a different housing.

Key Things to Know

• Build quality – Aftermarket (not OEM Kohler). Expect functional performance but slightly rougher plastic molding or spring tension. For occasional home use, it’s fine. For daily commercial use, an OEM starter may last longer.
• Installation difficulty – Easy. Remove the old starter by unscrewing three bolts (usually 5/16-inch or 8mm), disconnect the rope guide if present, and bolt this one on. No special tools needed. Takes 15–30 minutes.
• Common gotcha – The rope may be pre-coiled too tight or too loose. If the pull feels stiff or the rope doesn’t retract fully, you can adjust tension by pulling the rope out fully, then letting it retract slowly. If it still binds, you may need to rewind the spring.
• Spring breakage risk – If your old starter failed due to a broken spring, the new one’s spring can also snap if the engine backfires. Always ensure the flywheel key and valve timing are correct before installing.

Should You Buy It

If you need a budget-friendly replacement for a Kohler CV173/CV200/CV224 starter and don’t require OEM durability for heavy commercial use, this is a solid value at $38. It’s a straightforward swap for DIY repairs on tractors or zero-turns. Skip it if you run a mowing business and need maximum reliability—pay for the OEM Kohler starter instead.